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For Cincinnati Bengals fans who have marveled at cornerback DJ Turner's rise from benchwarmer to team captain, the story behind his determination is now being told by the person who knows him best: his mother, Donyale Turner. In the second episode of The Enquirer's special podcast series 'Beyond Sunday,' Donyale opens up about how her son fell in love with football, carved out a role at the University of Michigan, and eventually earned a starting spot with the Bengals.
The podcast, which spotlights five mothers of Bengals players, will be published on Cincinnati.com every Wednesday morning from Oct. 21 to Nov. 18. Other featured guests include Nikki Mims, mother of offensive tackle Amarius Mims, and Lady Higgins, mother of wide receiver Tee Higgins. The first episode featured Robin Burrow, mother of quarterback Joe Burrow.
Donyale Turner discusses DJ's childhood outside Atlanta, his football journey to the Bengals, and more. She humbly deflects credit for introducing him to the sport, recalling that as a baby, he would lie on the couch fixated on the television. When commercials interrupted the game, he grew restless; once play resumed, his joy returned. 'He couldn't wait to be six years old, because that's when they could play football in Gwinnett County,' she said. DJ was born and raised in Gwinnett County, a suburb 40 minutes north of Atlanta.
After winning a state championship at North Gwinnett High School during his junior year, DJ attended IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, for his senior year. IMG Academy is a prep school widely known for its elite sports programs. Donyale explains why she and her husband, Juan Drago, allowed DJ to attend IMG. 'Let's do this precollege thing,' Donyale said. 'Let's see who he is when we're not there.'
As for why DJ chose Michigan, Donyale said it was all about the education he would receive. She also reflects on watching him handle adversity early in his pro career and expresses pride in his accomplishments. Ahead of the 2025 season opener, DJ was told he wouldn't be a starter, but he went on to win his job back and have his best season to date. 'Adversity is not a stranger to DJ,' Donyale said. 'He never was that guy on Day 1; that's never been his story. We've always raised him and his sister with no excuses.'
Key Analysis
DJ Turner's journey from benched to captain is a testament to perseverance and family support. His mother's account reveals a childhood marked by an early passion for football and a relentless work ethic instilled by his parents. The decision to attend IMG Academy and later Michigan underscores a focus on both athletic and academic development. Turner's ability to overcome adversity and reclaim a starting role highlights his resilience, a trait his mother emphasizes was cultivated through a no-excuses upbringing. As the Bengals continue their season, Turner's story serves as an inspiring narrative of determination and the behind-the-scenes influence of family.
Originally reported by yahoo.